Exploring the Need for Psychiatry Sub-Specialization in Nepal: A Cross-sectional Survey Among Psychiatrists

TL;DR

This study explores whether psychiatrists in Nepal believe sub-specialization is needed to better address mental health challenges.

Contribution

The study provides insights into the perceived need for psychiatry sub-specialization in Nepal through a survey of practicing psychiatrists.

Findings

83.6% of respondents expressed a need for psychiatry sub-specialization in Nepal.

The most preferred sub-specialty was addiction psychiatry.

Only 60% of respondents were interested in pursuing sub-specialization despite acknowledging its need.

Abstract

The complexities in the identification and management of mental disorders have demanded sub-specialization. In Nepal, the number of psychiatrists still does not meet the minimum requirement of the psychiatrist-population ratio. There is a dilemma regarding the need for further subspecialization in psychiatry. This study aimed to assess the perceived need for psychiatry sub-specialization courses among Nepalese psychiatrists.

This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted via an online survey (using Google Forms) among Nepalese psychiatrists and psychiatry residents. Convenience and snowball sampling was used. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), presented in frequency and percentage.

Among 165 respondents, 99 (60%) were male, 105 (63.60%) were between 30-40 years of age, 125 (75.80%) were psychiatrists, and 138 (83.60%) expressed a need for further sub-specialization, although only 102 (60%) were interested. The primary reason for not pursuing sub-specialization was the need for general psychiatrists. Fellowship in addiction psychiatry was the most frequently selected sub-specialty.

Most of the participants stated that there is a need for pyschiatry sub-specialization in Nepal.

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